when the dog eats your philosophy homework

Where Did The Phrase “The Dog Ate My Homework” Come From?

Dogs are known as man’s best friend. Dogs keep us safe, are hard workers … and can provide a handy excuse in a pinch. Maybe that’s why versions of the classic expression the dog ate my homework have been around for hundreds of years.

Today, the dog ate my homework is used as a stock example of the kind of silly excuses schoolchildren give for why their work isn’t finished. Very rarely do people say, “the dog ate my homework” and expect it to be taken literally; they use the expression as an example of a typically flimsy excuse.

So where did the phrase come from?

Forrest Wickman, a writer for Slate , describes the legend of the 6th-century Saint Ciarán of Clonmacnoise as the alleged first recorded “the dog ate my homework” story. According to the tale, Saint Ciarán had a tame young fox that would take his writings to his master for him. One day, the fox grew up and decided to eat the leather strap binding the writings together instead. Still, this tale is more Garden-of-Eden parable and less terrible schoolchild excuse.

The notion that dogs will eat just about anything, including paper, turns up in lots of stories over the centuries. An example comes from The Humors of Whist , published in 1808 in Sporting Magazine . In the story, the players are sitting around playing cards when one of them remarks that their companion would have lost the game had the dog not eaten the losing card. Good boy.

Some attribute the creation of the dog ate my homework to a joke that was going around at the beginning of the 20th century. In a tale found as far back as an 1894 memoir by Anglican priest Samuel Reynolds Hole, a preacher gives a shortened version of a sermon because a dog got into his study and ate some of the pages he had written. However, the clerk loved it because they had been wanting the preacher to shorten his sermons for years.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary , the first example of the dog ate my homework excuse in print can be found in a speech given by retiring headmaster James Bewsher in 1929 and published in the Manchester Guardian : “It is a long time since I have had the excuse about the dog tearing up the arithmetic homework.” The way this comment is phrased suggests that the whole dog ate my homework story had been around for some time before it was put in print.

When was the word homework created?

But in order for a dog to eat homework specifically, homework had to be invented (oh, and how we wish it hadn’t been). True, the word homework , as in what we call today housework , appears as early as 1653. But homework , as in school exercises to be done at home, isn’t found until 1852. Once we had homework , it was only a matter of time before the dog was accused of eating it.

How we use this phrase now

No matter the origin, sometime in the 1950s, the expression became set as the dog ate my homework . This inspired any number of riffs on the theme, like my cow ate my homework or my brother ate my homework . In the 1960s, the dog ate my homework continued to gain popularity. The expression popped up a couple times in politics over the years, like when President Reagan said to reporters in 1988, “I had hoped that we had marked the end of the ‘dog-ate-my-homework’ era of Congressional budgetry … but it was not to be.”

It seems unlikely that the dog ate my homework was ever used consistently or frequently by actual schoolchildren. In fact, it’s the unlikeliness of the story that makes it so funny and absurd as a joke. Instead, teachers and authority figures appear to have cited the dog ate my homework many times over the years as such a bad excuse they can’t believe students are really using it.

In the 21st century, students don’t spend as much time working with physical pen and paper as they once did. That may contribute to the decline in the use of the phrase. So, maybe soon we’ll see a new equally absurd phrase pop up. Come on Zoomers, you’ve got this.

WATCH: What's A Unique Homework Routine That Works?

Trending Words

Word Origins

[ doo- plis -i-t uh s ]

• By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy policies.
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Origin of "my dog ate my homework"?

Is there a specifc incident or origin story for the common joke/comedic phrase "my dog ate my homework"? I always wondered whether there was a student who became notorious for not turning in their homework and using that excuse, or whether someone somewhere used it as a flimsy excuse and everyone thought it was funny, or any other reason...

If no one can find anything, do we at least know how long it's been around as a saying?

Also, how often does it turn out to be true? Has anyone here who owned a dog during childhood ever actually had that happen to them?

• 2 Yes, one of our dogs chews lots of things if they are left lying about. It is completely plausible. I’d bet it originated in truth about the same time as people started letting dogs live inside the home and homework was being done on paper. –  Jim Commented Mar 6, 2019 at 2:03
• Here is a piece that recounts a similar joke as early as 1905: slate.com/human-interest/2012/10/… . However, I do not have any evidence that this was the earliest occurrence. –  Benjamin Kuykendall Commented Mar 6, 2019 at 2:04
• It's been around for as long as there have been dogs and homework. –  Hot Licks Commented Mar 6, 2019 at 2:05
• That article would make a pretty good answer. –  DJClayworth Commented Mar 6, 2019 at 4:13

The phrase was actually built up through a series of sentences like, ' My dog chewed it up ' and ' My cat chewed it up and I had no time to do it over. '

These sentences were first used in the 1965 comic novel, Up the Down Staircase.

But it mainly became popular in 1974 when a book was written with the title, ' The Cat Ate My Gym. ' Many works had the same reference and only then did it become a classic punch.

It's funny, anyway.

• 1 1965 may be the origin of the two precise sentences you quote, but it is definitely not the origin of the trope, which is attested in written sources from the beginning of the 20th century. –  Janus Bahs Jacquet Commented Mar 6, 2019 at 16:15

Your Answer

Sign up or log in, post as a guest.

Required, but never shown

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy .

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged etymology idioms jokes or ask your own question .

• Featured on Meta
• Upcoming sign-up experiments related to tags

Hot Network Questions

• How can I understand hexadecimal columns as power of 16 in Jeff Duntemann's book?
• Why is this call to an overloaded function that takes a std::function as an argument considered ambiguous?
• Content strategy for 2 web shops with same content, to avoid duplicate content penalty
• Why can real number operations be applied to complex numbers?
• When is a state entangled?
• Is parapsychology a science?
• How can I reset my apple ID on all my devices synchronously?
• Article that plagiarized our paper is still available and gets cited - what to do?
• What camera could I mount or rig to my bike that can read/recognize license plates
• Should I tell my class I am neurodivergent?
• Why can't we define arbitrarily large sets yet after defining these axioms? (Tao's Analysis I)
• How to make annotations follow the latitude lines in QGIS?
• When is multidimensional scaling exact for a graph?
• Origin of "That tracks" to mean "That makes sense."
• Would a series of gravitational waves from a supernova affect time on a 200 year old clock just as water waves affected clocks on ships in rough seas?
• Calculate mu and sigma of a log normal distribution from p50 and p99 in javascript
• Can Enemies Abound cast by a fiend affect creatures in Hallow?
• Can I enter France on an expired EU passport?
• Why is my bike clunky, and what is this loose string?
• What would happen to 'politicians' in this world?
• What's funny about "He leveraged his @#% deep into soy beans and cocoa futures" in The Jerk (1979)?
• Box taking exactly N \baselineskip
• Can sacrificing a Queen be considered a brilliant move?
• Where should I put a comma in this sentence?

The Enlightened Mindset

Exploring the World of Knowledge and Understanding

Welcome to the world's first fully AI generated website!

The Truth Behind the “Dog Ate My Homework” Excuse: Exploring Its Effectiveness and Psychological Implications

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

The “dog ate my homework” excuse has been around for decades and is one of the most popular reasons students give for not completing their assignments on time. It’s used as both an excuse and a joke, but what does it really mean? This article will explore the truth behind the “dog ate my homework” excuse, examining its effectiveness and psychological implications.

An Examination of the Effectiveness of Using the “Dog Ate My Homework” Excuse

It may seem like an obvious answer to the question of whether or not a dog actually ate your homework, but there are some important factors to consider. First, it is important to look at why students use this excuse more than others. According to a study by the University of Michigan, students who use the “dog ate my homework” excuse are often trying to avoid being held accountable for their actions. They are also more likely to be struggling academically and trying to find a way out of doing the work.

Another factor to consider is whether or not this excuse is actually effective. While it may sound like a good idea in theory, the truth is that it rarely works. In fact, research shows that teachers are more likely to believe other excuses such as forgetting or running out of time. Furthermore, using the “dog ate my homework” excuse could backfire and make the teacher less likely to believe any future excuses.

Interviewing Dog Owners on the Truth Behind This Excuse

In order to get a better understanding of the “dog ate my homework” excuse, I interviewed several dog owners to get their perspectives. One dog owner, Mary, believes that the excuse is rooted in cultural history. She says, “I think the excuse comes from a long-standing belief that dogs have a tendency to get into things they shouldn’t. So, when a student can’t do their assignment, they might just blame it on the dog to avoid getting in trouble.”

Another dog owner, John, sees the “dog ate my homework” excuse as a way to shift the blame away from the student. He explains, “It’s human nature to want to avoid being held accountable for our actions. So, if a student can’t do their assignment, they might try to blame it on the dog to avoid taking responsibility.”

Finally, I spoke with a third dog owner, Susan, who believes that the “dog ate my homework” excuse can have a negative impact on student-teacher relationships. She notes, “If a teacher hears this excuse too often, it can erode their trust in the student. And, even if the excuse is true, the teacher may become less likely to believe future excuses from that student.”

Exploring the Psychological Implications of Using This Excuse

In addition to examining the effectiveness of the “dog ate my homework” excuse, it is also important to look at its psychological implications. Lying is never a good thing and can have serious consequences, both in the short and long term. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, lying can lead to feelings of guilt, anxiety, and depression.

Furthermore, claiming a dog ate your homework can also have a negative impact on your relationship with your teacher. If the teacher finds out you lied, they may be less likely to trust you in the future. This can lead to a strained relationship and make it difficult to ask for help when you need it.

The “dog ate my homework” excuse is a popular one, but it is rarely effective and can have serious psychological implications. Not only is it unlikely to convince a teacher that you haven’t done your assignment, but it can also lead to feelings of guilt and anxiety. Furthermore, it can damage your relationship with your teacher and make it harder to ask for help in the future. Ultimately, it is best to avoid using this excuse and take responsibility for your actions.

In conclusion, the “dog ate my homework” excuse has been around for decades and is often used as a joke or an excuse. However, this article has shown that it is rarely effective and can have serious psychological implications. Therefore, it is best to avoid using this excuse and take responsibility for your actions.

Call to Action

If you are in a situation where you need to come up with an excuse for not completing your homework, try to be honest and take responsibility for your actions. Lying is never a good idea and can lead to feelings of guilt and anxiety. Furthermore, it can damage your relationships with your teachers and make it harder to ask for help in the future. So, the next time you need to come up with an excuse, be honest and take responsibility.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

Related Post

Jack hanna keto gummies: real reviews, price, how much exercise does a border collie need a comprehensive guide, a comprehensive guide to the ornish diet: reshaping your health and well-being, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Expert Guide: Removing Gel Nail Polish at Home Safely

Trading crypto in bull and bear markets: a comprehensive examination of the differences, making croatia travel arrangements, make their day extra special: celebrate with a customized cake.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Strange News

Can the dog still eat your homework.

It may be the best known bad excuse for being unprepared: "The Dog Ate My Homework." But where does the phrase come from and how has it changed over the years? Weekend Edition host Scott Simon talks with Forrest Wickman, a reporter with Slate Magazine , who has the answers.

Copyright © 2012 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

BUT THE DOG REALLY DID

EAT MY HOMEWORK!

There's a kid, name of Kyle, homework's not quite his style,

likes to get a drink and sit there for awhile, (This is Kyle!)

puts his work in a pile, (he prefers to smile)

starts in just a little while. Kyle really did do his

homework and he put it in his pack on the floor. Uh oh!

"Did you know that a dog would eat homework?"

When he got up he said, "Oh my gosh, now I'm dead!"

There was chewed-up homework lying on the floor by his bed.

"Come here, dog!" Kyle said. Doggy tilts his head.

"What's your problem, dog? You were already fed.

You've got bones in your head!" Kyle said,

ran off and got the bus, saw his friends and said:

"Do you know that my dog ate my homework?"

All his friends said, "Yeah right! Like you're up half the night,

doing homework now or some-thing." "Guess again. Not too bright!"

"Say that you hurt your hand, and you couldn't write."

"Say your folks were out last night. Go bump your head."

"See the nurse. Act sick.”

“Just spin and spin until you fall down." they said.

"But my dog really did eat my homework."

Later on in his class, Teacher said, "Will you pass

in your homework please from yesterday." Then Kyle said, "Alas!"

When he tried to explain  it was all in vain,

and the teacher shook her head "Kyle, let and said to

Kyle, "Let me make something plain:

At three o'clock you will re main. See you after class!"

"But the dog really did eat my homework!"

So until 3:45 he stayed,

till his debt to society was paid, I'm afraid,

When he got home, he said to the dog on his bed,

"It was you got me in trouble after school, Dodo head!

All the world now thinks that I'm a big disgrace,

and they're on my case!

Why did you have to go eat my homework?"

...Then the dog licked his face.

This song is a true story. Kyle Ng’s

dog “Keiko”, a 7 month- old Boxer-

German shepherd mix, really did

eat his homework. But nobody

believed him, including his music

teacher, the composer of this song.

Kyle says that his dog is smart and

obeys commands such as “Eat!”.

words & music by Bill Vollinger ©2004

Heritage Choral 15/2005H

“But the Dog REALLY

DID Eat My Homework!”

(two-part treble voices & piano)

The Lorenz Corporation

501 E. Third St.

Dayton, Ohio 45401

(800) 444-1144 ext. 1

click for ordering information

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Why not "the dog has eaten my homework"?

Why do we say "The dog ate my homework" without the perfect present?

I know the perfect present is used to describe an action in the past that influences the present (an explicit call to action). So should it be "The dog has eaten my homework (so I cannot read them out loud)". No?

Having that said, most of the time we tell about the past in relation to the present. I mean it seems most actions in the past have an influence to the present when we mention them. I feel I overuse it.

• present-perfect

• 3 My guess is it's just that non-native Anglophones wouldn't be at all likely to use this extremely tongue-in-cheek excuse. And only a non-native speaker would think of using the more complicated verb form here, because only a non-native speaker would be thinking of that "rule" about using Present Perfect to reflect relevance to time of utterance. Native speakers (especially, the ones who don't do their homework! :) are much more likely to stick to Simple Past in a context like this. –  FumbleFingers Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 16:43
• 3 ... here , by the way, is "evidence" that OP is quite right - almost no-one ever says The dog has eaten my homework , even though the context is almost always one where the past action is extremely relevant to "time of utterance" (precisely because it's being given as an excuse). It's an interesting question though! :) –  FumbleFingers Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 16:45
• I just ask why was this rooted in past simple the first place. We are all used to say " where have i heard this before " or " where have you been " but why are we used to past simple here? –  Elad Benda Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 17:27
• There is much understanding regarding the fact that the present perfect is used to mean in the past without mentioning when or referring to a specific act. So, it all boils down to how you want to say it. Do you just want to signal the past at time of speaking ?? OR : Do you want to refer to a one-time event in the past ?? That is the difference between the two. And this question has been answered many, many times on this site. –  Lambie Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 17:40
• 1 I don't see why a sarcastic teacher might not say, e.g., 'the dog has been eating your homework a lot lately'. –  Michael Harvey Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 18:03

It is commonly taught that the present perfect tense in English means "happened in the past but relevant in the present", but I think this is not quite right, as shown by your question. The present perfect indicates to the listener that you are thinking of the event in relation to a certain time interval, which begins somewhere in the past and extends to the present and possibly beyond. The event happened somewhere in this time interval, possibly even just now, as in "Jones has won the race!" (spoken as Jones crosses the finish line). Exactly what time interval is understood depends heavily on context. For more information, see this answer .

The reason we don't say "The dog has eaten my homework" is because that would suggest that it still might be possible to do something about it. We say "The dog ate my homework" because that places the event clearly in the past, severed from the present, implying that it is over and nothing can be done about it.

"The dog has eaten my homework" suggests that something could still be done about it, because it leads the listener to view the event as part of a time interval or process that continues up to and possibly beyond the present moment. For another example of this, see the "Lost keys" section of this answer . The simple past does not evoke that time interval, so it's a clearer way to imply that the homework is irretrievably gone. If there were still several hours until the deadline, you might say to another student, "The dog has eaten my homework" to ask for help—perhaps there is still enough time to redo the homework or maybe even recover it from the dog (the sort of thing that might happen in a comedy).

Note that there is no rule here, beyond "the present perfect invites the listener to think of the event within a time interval that continues up to and possibly beyond the present". There is no rule that the present perfect implies that something could still be done to change the result, nor a rule that the simple past tense implies that nothing can be done to change the result. The implications of the time interval vary enormously from context to context, calling upon understanding of the topic, what's at stake, other conventional usage, etc.

You should know that linguists and schoolteachers commonly hold to the theory that the present perfect means "happened in the past but relevant in the present". So, if you point out a time interval on an exam, you will likely be marked wrong. And you should know that linguists and schoolteachers are often wrong. But I could be wrong, too, of course. Much of English grammar is still not well understood scientifically, and no authority is completely reliable. I think you are taking the right course: learning from real usage, one sentence at a time, thinking about it, and sometimes asking what other people think. That is how everyone has learned how to really speak any language.

• Past perfect= a thing happened in the past without specifying when at the time of speaking . The dog eating the homework is not the usage where the thing extends to the present. It is the usage where the action occurs at a non-specified time in the past at the time of speaking. –  Lambie Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 18:23
• What about "I have heard you" - it's completed and there is nothing to do about it. –  Elad Benda Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 19:25
• @Lambie so I'm confused. No specific time, but still past simple? "ate" –  Elad Benda Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 19:26
• @Etad Benda Yes, I ate it. [But I am not telling you when: this am, last night, last week]. Try to think about past perfect and the "time of speaking"; I suggest you look up my many posts on this subject.....:) –  Lambie Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 19:32
• @EladBenda See the paragraph that starts "Note that there is no rule here" (and the linked answers). We would need to know more context to understand why someone chose to say "I have heard you" instead of "I heard you." Something nice about the dog/homework example is that a pretty rich context is clearly implied. –  Ben Kovitz Commented Mar 29, 2021 at 20:20

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for browse other questions tagged idioms present-perfect ..

• Featured on Meta
• Upcoming sign-up experiments related to tags

Hot Network Questions

• How (if at all) are the PHB rules on Hiding affected by the Skulker feat and the Mask of the Wild trait?
• Does anybody know what this phrase means? (Oracle bones)
• How did the Terminator recognize Sarah at Tech Noir?
• When hiding behind something, can you even make a ranged attack with advantage?
• Is there a unified scientific method, anything in addition to its demarcation from pseudo science?
• Does the Larmor Formula assume circular motion?
• Why is my bike clunky, and what is this loose string?
• Box taking exactly N \baselineskip
• Are all representations of the geometric étale fundamental group subquotients of representations of the arithmetic étale fundamental group?
• When is multidimensional scaling exact for a graph?
• Can you perform harmonics on wine glasses?
• What camera could I mount or rig to my bike that can read/recognize license plates
• I'm looking for a short story I read 10-15 years ago about a man exploring post-apocalyptic Britain
• How can I understand hexadecimal columns as power of 16 in Jeff Duntemann's book?
• Why should you want to use a smaller size control group?
• LTCGY - Let the corners guide you
• Is intrinsic spin a quantum or/and a relativistic phenomenon?
• How to change position of data values in the column of table
• Hubble gyro manufacturer
• Would a series of gravitational waves from a supernova affect time on a 200 year old clock just as water waves affected clocks on ships in rough seas?
• Where should I put a comma in this sentence?
• Calculating swap rolldown using the RatesLib Python Library
• Check if license plate number is formatted correctly
• My supervisor is promoting my work (that I think has flaws) everywhere - what to do?

25% OFF Custom Pet Apparel! Use code APPAREL at checkout. Ends Tuesday, 6/25. Shop apparel.

Buy a Portrait, Get a FREE Mug!

How it works:

Step 1 . Add any portrait to your cart. Step 2 . Add a mug to your cart from the bundle page Step 3 . Once both items are added to cart, the mug will automatically be free!

What To Do When Your Dog Eats Your Homework (Literally)

Tanner Dritschler @ Apr 04, 2024

You've just brewed a warm cup of coffee, you're sitting down to finally tackle that mountain of   homework , and then—chomp, chomp, chomp—your furry best friend decides your essay looks like a tasty treat. Yep, that age-old excuse "my dog ate my homework" isn't so funny when it becomes your reality! But before you start worrying about Fido's literary critique of your work, let's consider the real chew toy at hand—our dogs' safety when they nibble on our notes.

Understanding the Why

Why do dogs chew on paper? It's not like they're trying to give us their two cents on our thesis statements. The truth is, our canine companions might chew on paper out of sheer boredom or because they're on a secret mission to uncover the "taste" of knowledge. It could also be a sign of behavioral issues, such as separation anxiety or a lack of mental stimulation. Think of it as your dog's way of saying, "This essay could use a little more flavor."

However, it's not all about them being undercover book critics. Sometimes, our dogs just love the texture or the attention they get from us when they're caught in the act. It's like they're saying, "Look, I'm helping you edit!" But before we start praising our pups for their editorial insights, let's make sure we're addressing any underlying issues that could be leading to this paper feast.

Health First - Assessing the Situation

If your dog just had a field day with your   homework , the first step is to keep calm and check on your pup. While most paper products are non-toxic, they can still cause a blockage or upset tummy. Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of distress, like pawing at the mouth, gagging, or a sudden game of hide-and-seek under the bed. Remember, while dogs are great at many things, digesting complex carbohydrates—and complex calculus problems—is not one of them.

After you've ensured your dog isn't in any immediate danger, it's time to think about the next steps. Will there be any repercussions from this unexpected snack? Do you need to call in the homework cavalry? Don't worry, we've got your back (and your dog's belly) covered with some tail-wagging advice.

To Vet or Not to Vet

Now, deciding whether to rush to the vet can be as tricky as a dog trying to understand quantum physics. If your dog is acting like their usual, tail-wagging self, you might just need to monitor them closely. However, if you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms, like vomiting, lethargy, or a sudden disinterest in their favorite squeaky toy, it's probably time to call in the professionals (better safe than sorry) . Remember, while we wish we could add our pups to our student health plans, their care is a bit more specialized.

It's always better to err on the side of caution, so if you're in doubt, give your vet a shout. They can provide the best advice for your dog's breed, size, and the amount of   homework   they've turned into an appetizer. It's like having a homework hotline, but for your dog's health!

Preventative Measures

Preventing future paper feasts starts with understanding that your dog doesn't share your appreciation for literature. Keep your homework and other important papers out of paw's reach—think high shelves or closed rooms. After all, dogs are great jumpers, but they haven't mastered doorknobs... yet. And let's be honest, they'd probably prefer a good chew toy over your book report any day. Maybe we should start designing chew toys shaped like diplomas?

Training is key, too. Teach your furry friend the "leave it" command, and make sure they have plenty of appropriate chew toys to keep them occupied. It's like swapping out their snack of paper for a healthier option, like a rubber bone or a puzzle feeder. Who knows, maybe they'll develop a taste for toys that look like A+ report cards instead of your actual A+ report card.

Turning Lemons into Lemonade

When life gives you chewed-up homework, make... art? That's right, why not turn this little mishap into a masterpiece by commissioning a custom pet portrait?   West & Willow   can transform the remnants of your homework into a beautiful tribute to your dog's... creativity. It's a way to embrace the humor in the situation and share a good laugh with your fellow dog-loving friends. Plus, who wouldn't want to start a new trend of "homework art" curated by our pups?

Imagine hanging a framed portrait of your dog alongside the scraps of your algebra assignment—now that's a conversation starter! It's a way to celebrate the love and laughter that comes with having a canine companion, even when they turn your important documents into confetti. So, let's raise a paw to our furry friends and their unexpected contributions to our décor!

Homework Recovery

So, your dog has eaten your   homework —now what? First, take a deep breath and consider the digital age we live in. Most schools and universities are pretty understanding about canine-induced catastrophes, especially if you can provide a backup of your work. Cloud storage, USB drives, and email drafts are your new best friends. And for the future? It might be time to invest in a "dog-proof" homework folder, made from the toughest materials known to canine kind—or at least tougher than your standard notebook paper.

When it comes to explaining the situation to your teacher or professor, honesty is the best policy. Share the tale of your dog's dietary indiscretion (hopefully with photo/video proof), and you might just find they have a soft spot for pet-related predicaments. After all, who can resist a good dog story? Just make sure you have a plan in place to prevent a repeat performance. Your dog may be an adorable excuse for missing homework, but let's not make it a habit!

If you've ever uttered the words "my dog ate my   homework " and meant it, you're not alone. It's a rite of passage for hardcore dog owners, a story that joins us in the great tapestry of pet parenting. These moments remind us that life with our four-legged friends is filled with joy, laughter, and the occasional chewed-up essay. But hey, that's what makes it an adventure, right?

As we wrap up this guide, remember that every day with your dog is a learning experience—for both of you. So, let's take these lessons in stride, keep our homework out of reach, and maybe frame a picture of our mischievous mutts as a reminder of the day they tried to digest Shakespeare. Because at the end of the day, our dogs may not be the best study buddies, but they're certainly the best companions.

What should I do immediately if my dog eats my homework?

Check your dog for any signs of distress and remove any remaining paper from reach. Keep an eye on them for the next few hours for any unusual behavior, and consider calling your vet if you're concerned.

How can I tell if my dog is actually sick from eating paper?

Watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, or lethargy. These could indicate that the paper has caused a blockage or other digestive issues.

Are there any long-term effects of my dog eating paper?

Occasional paper eating may not cause long-term issues, but repeated incidents can lead to digestive problems. Consult your vet if this becomes a habit.

How can I train my dog to stop chewing on paper?

Teach the "leave it" command, provide plenty of appropriate chew toys, and keep papers out of reach. Consistent training and mental stimulation can help curb the behavior.

Can I still get a custom pet portrait if my dog has eaten part of the photo I wanted to use?

Absolutely! West & Willow can work with various photo qualities, or you can choose a different image if the original is too damaged. Your dog's portrait will still look paw-some!

Jen L. - Marketing Manager

Don't forget! We offer FREE shipping on all orders over $100+ USD. Check out bundle discounts as well!

Shop Best Sellers

• Best Sellers
• Modern Pet Portraits
• Custom Pet Apparel
• Royal Pet Portraits
• Line Drawing Pet Portraits
• Memorial Pet Portrait

Shop Accessories

• Phone Cases
• Throw Pillow
• Fleece Blanket
• Quote Signs
• FAQ & Contact
• Shipping Guide
• Image Guidelines
• Giving Back

Your cart is currently empty

The Dog Ate My Homework!

Top 5 funniest student excuses.

The Survey Says

Everyone knows that a great teacher embraces creativity and encourages it in each and every student. Many students learn this lesson quite well but unfortunately, illustrate their mastery when pressed about homework not being completed or projects left undone.

The excuse “the dog ate my homework” probably dates to the Paleolithic era when a creative student met the first dog. Poor canines have been blamed for academic failures for the next 15,000 years. While the excuse continues to be an old favorite, students today have applied their creativity to parents, families, other pets and now of course technology.

ESGI and ThinkFives polled hundreds of teachers to solicit the funniest or most creative excuses they have heard in their classrooms. These are actual excuses used by students and shared with ThinkFives.

It’s My Parents!

• My mom punished me by not letting me do it.
• My mother said “Jesus is coming soon so we better go to church instead of doing homework.”
• My mama fell through the porch.
• My dad didn’t do it.
• My nanny drove over my science project and the fruit flies just didn’t make it.

There’s an Animal or Sibling Involved

• My cat peed on my homework.
• A duck flew into the house and grabbed it with the Rice Krispies.
• My little brother hid it too well during hide and seek.
• My baby sister ate it because she still doesn’t know what food is.
• My brother was farting all night and I couldn’t be in my room. That’s where my computer is.

Darn that Technology 

• Our Internet does not work unless the sun is shining.
• My mom locked me in the bathroom until I would take a shower and there was no wifi in there.
• I thought I was using the copier but it was the shredder.
• I dropped my iPad in the toilet.
• My Chromebook is sick. It has a virus.

Understandable Issues

• It was International Pancake Day- free pancakes at the IHOP.
• I had a potty battle and I lost!
• I had to get my hair done
• I didn’t want to add to your workload.
• My friend is failing so I gave it to him to use.

• It was raining.
• My brain left my body for a bit.
• I didn’t have time because I had to play with my PlayStation.
• I didn’t want “Sally” to be the only one that didn’t have her homework today.
• I kept thinking about bubblegum.

What’s a Funny Excuse You’ve Heard?

Share this:

For the reason their laptop wasn’t charged for class today a student said, “We don’t have outlets at home.” When in fact I know he does.🙄😂#middleschoolers #alwaysforthelaugh

There’s always an excuse! I don’t get it. Doing my homework when I was a kid wasn’t an option! 🙄

I have to admit: “My Chromebook is sick. It has a virus.” was a very clever one. Wow, such creativity there! Really impressed!

“I seriously had full intentions of doing my homework, but then, I remembered how important you said sleep was.”

I didn’t do it because it was too easy for me..

The Dog Blog

Categories:.

• Bil-Jac History
• Bil-Jac News
• Grooming and Care

Health and Nutrition

• Seasonal Tips
• Training and Behavior
• Wellbeing Tips

My Dog Ate My Homework: How to Correct Unwanted Dog Behavior

Sometime throughout your life you may have heard (or possibly used) the old expression, “the dog ate my homework.” Hopefully, you haven’t had to actually deal with your four-legged friend using your work assignment as a midday snack. If they are exhibiting unwanted behavior like chewing on things that aren’t theirs, we can help.

Dogs, especially puppies, are delicate animals that need to feel loved, safe, and secure within our homes. When our furry friends do something we don’t like, the last thing we want to do is try to correct the behavior in a way that makes them feel confused or scared. Luckily, there are plenty of positive ways to address and correct your dog’s behavior that won’t cause unnecessary stress for you or your pooch.

Identifying Bad Behavior

Before you can correct your dog’s bad habits, you need to be able to identify what is and is not bad behavior. Though some “bad” behaviors are common characteristics of all dogs, the problem arises when the action becomes excessive, damaging, or unwelcome.

Common bad habits that may need to be addressed include:

• Excessive barking
• Biting and/or nipping

It is important to remember that a lot of factors can impact a dog’s behavior. Their breed, age, medical history, and past experiences all shape how they act and how they may respond to training. There are also many different reasons why your dog may act out that range from separation anxiety to sheer boredom .

Is your dog acting out because they are seeking attention? Or maybe they are just unfamiliar with a new situation and that makes them anxious. It is helpful to identify potential causes of behavior problems to help better understand what training they may need.

No matter the reason for the misdeeds, it’s important to stop undesirable behavior before it becomes part of your dog’s normal routine. Luckily, there are a few methods you can use to address and correct bad behavior that when executed properly, can help most dogs curb their harmful habits.

Preventing Bad Behavior

Once you have identified your dog’s bad behavior, you can begin to formulate a plan to address and correct the troublesome trait. The most important factor to remember is that punishment is not the answer. Instead, use positive reward-based correction and training to teach your dog that good things happen when they do what you ask.

Corrections Instead of Punishments

Corrections are used to help your pup learn right from wrong. The purpose of a correction is to demonstrate a fact to your dog, while gaining the ability to understand, and reduce, unwanted behaviors. We all make mistakes, but it’s important to teach our dogs to avoid the behaviors we don’t want, and to encourage them with the behaviors we do want. This makes for a happy home for both pup and pup parent.

Several behavioral corrections can be used to train your pooch the right and safe way. Two of the more popular correction methods are withholding a reward and reprimanding.

Withholding a Reward

During your training sessions, try giving your dog commands and reward them with some delicious Bil-Jac Little Jacs Training Treats  for the right behavior and withhold the treat if they do any unwanted dog behavior.

By repeating this exercise several times with your pooch, they will start to understand that they are only rewarded for doing the thing you want them to do. This form of training will help your dog create a positive association with good behaviors, which is much more effective than punishing a dog for bad behavior.

In contrast, withholding a reward when he or she doesn’t follow direction will teach your furry friend to avoid that behavior in the future. For some pups, withholding a reward is all they need to correct their bad dog behavior.

Reprimanding the Puppy

When withholding a reward isn’t enough, sometimes it makes sense to reprimand your puppy. This may sound intimidating, but reprimanding your puppy is not about scaring them or hurting your four-legged friend. Instead, it is simply creating a learning moment your dog can recognize as out of the norm to help signal something is not right.

Giving a simple but firm ‘NO!’ with a finger point or a brief leash tug is enough to alert your pup that they need to make an adjustment. By doing this, and withholding a reward, your dog should learn to adjust their behavior fairly quickly.

Redirection

Another way to correct unwanted dog behavior is through redirection. A lot of behavior that we as pet parents deem as “bad” is oftentimes just instinctive habits our pup can’t fully turn off. Chewing, barking, and digging are all habits that come naturally to our dogs, so it may be impossible to fully stop these behaviors. What we can do, however, is redirect our dog’s attention to less damaging activities when these “bad” behaviors occur.

If your dog is chewing, digging, jumping, or exhibiting a behavior you don’t like, offer them their favorite chew toy, play a few rounds of tug, or take them for a jog around the block. Sometimes even some basic exercise can help burn off steam and distract them from their initial bad actions.

S ocialization

When it comes to correcting unwanted dog behavior, socialization goes a long way.

Sometimes our furry friends act up because they are anxious, confused, or scared. When you regularly socialize your pup , they become more accustomed to different sounds, smells, and new sensations. These new experiences help your dog learn how to relax in unfamiliar situations, and in turn they are less likely to overreact or exhibit bad behavior like barking, jumping, biting, and chasing when caught off guard.

Work With a Trainer

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out what our dog’s need. Luckily, dog trainers are a great resource to lean on when we aren’t sure how to help our furry friends. Professional Animal Trainer and TV Show Host Joel Silverman is a phenomenal source of information when it comes to raising, training , and caring for dogs of all ages. When asked about curbing bad behavior, Silverman offers some helpful advice to keep in mind:

“If you can catch a dog right when he’s starting to dig or chew and say, ‘knock it off,’ now you’re sending a message the dog can understand,” Silverman explains. “A verbal correction combined with preventative training, which is not giving the dog the opportunity to be in that situation, is how you get rid of those problems.”

Ultimately, the most important thing to do when you want to correct unwanted dog behavior is to remember that practice makes perfect. Dogs are smart and social animals and want to please their dog parents, so regularly reinforcing good behavior will help them stay consistent. Plus, training your pup and using corrections is a great way to build your bond and ensure a healthy and happy home for the whole family.

Want to learn more about what you can do to keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and well-behaved? Join our Best Friends Club today to receive our exclusive email newsletter full of informative articles, training tips, and members-only discounts on Bil-Jac dog food, treats, and other products.

Related Blog Posts

Training and Behavior, Lifestyle

How to Choose the Right Obedience School for Your Dog

Helping your Puppy Blow Off Steam

Training and Behavior Lifestyle, Training and Behavior

4 Tips for Socializing Your New Puppy

Monitoring a Healthy Weight for Your Puppy

Little-Jacs®

Small size is perfect for treating any time.

Little Gooberlicious®

Great treats for training or an everyday snack.

America's VetDogs® Training Treats

Official Training Treat of America’s VetDogs Organization

Smart-Jacs® Digestive Support

Help deliver healthy digestion in a soft, delicious treat!

The Puppy Club

Sign up for exclusive puppy information to help you raise a happy and healthy best friend!

Best Friends Club

Sign up to receive the latest news!

When Your Dog Eats Your Philosophy Homework

1. Introduction

It can be incredibly stressful when your dog eats your philosophy homework. It can be difficult to explain the situation to your professor and even more difficult to come up with a solution that will satisfy everyone involved. This article will discuss the dangers of having a dog around your homework, tips for keeping your dog away from it, what to do if your dog does eat it, and strategies for coping with the stress afterwards.

2. What is Philosophy?

Philosophy is a field of study that seeks to examine and understand the fundamental nature of reality, knowledge, and existence. It is often divided into five main branches: metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, and logic. Philosophers use these branches to analyze and interpret the world around them in order to gain insight into how we should live our lives.

3. How to Approach a Philosophy Assignment

When you are assigned a philosophy assignment, it is important to take some time to think about the subject matter before diving into writing. Take some time to read the assignment carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked of you. After that, you should begin researching the topic in order to gain a better understanding of it and come up with an argument or opinion on it. Once you have done this, you should begin writing your essay or paper in an organized manner using evidence from your research to support your claims.

4. The Dangers of Having a Dog Around Your Homework

Having a dog around while doing homework can be dangerous for both the dog and the student. Dogs can easily become bored or frustrated if not given enough attention or stimulation, which can lead them to chew on things they shouldn’t like homework! Additionally, dogs may become curious about what their owners are working on and try to get involved by tearing apart papers or nibbling on pencils.

5. Tips for Keeping Your Dog Away From Homework

The best way to keep your dog away from your homework is by providing them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. This will help keep them occupied while you are busy with schoolwork and reduce their chances of getting bored or frustrated enough to start chewing on things they shouldn’t be chewing on! Additionally, it is important to create a designated area for both you and your pet where they can relax without being disturbed while you work on assignments.

6. What To Do If Your Dog Eats Your Homework

If your dog does eat your philosophy homework, there are several steps you should take in order to minimize any damage done: • Immediately remove any remaining pieces of paper from the area • Take your dog outside for some fresh air and exercise • Contact your professor as soon as possible in order to explain what happened • Try to recreate the assignment if possible

7. What To Do If You Don’t Have Time To Redo The Assignment

If you don’t have enough time to redo the assignment before its due date then there are still some options available: • Speak with your professor about extending the due date or submitting an alternate assignment • Ask if there are any extra credit opportunities available • Reach out to other students who may have completed similar assignments in order to get ideas or assistance

8. What Not To Do When Your Dog Eats Your Homework

When dealing with this situation it is important not to panic or blame yourself for what has happened; instead focus on finding solutions that will help minimize any damage done by your pet’s actions: • Don’t attempt to retrieve pieces of paper from inside your pet – this could cause further harm • Don’t ignore the situation – contact your professor immediately in order explain what happened

9 Strategies For Coping With Stress After The Incident Dealing with this type of situation can be stressful but there are some steps you can take in order cope with any anxiety or frustration caused by it: • Talk about what happened with someone who understands – whether it be a family member, friend or even online support group • Take some time for yourself – go for a walk, listen to music or read a book • Practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises < h2 >10 How To Prevent Similar Incidents From Happening Again In order prevent similar incidents from happening again there are several steps you should take: • Make sure that all papers are stored in secure locations where pets cannot access them • Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day so that pets don’t become bored • Create a designated area for both you and pets where they can relax without being disturbed while you work on assignments • Consider investing in pet-proof containers for storing important documents • Be mindful of leaving food around that could attract pets < h2 >11 Conclusion In conclusion, having a pet around while doing homework can be dangerous but there are ways that one can prevent similar incidents from happening again such as providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day as well as creating designated areas for both humans and pets where they can relax without being disturbed while working on assignments . Additionally , if such an incident does occur , there are several steps one should take such as contacting their professor immediately , recreating their assignment if possible , speaking with their professor about extending deadlines , asking other students for assistance , practicing mindfulness techniques , etc .

Related articles.

Unleash Your Inner Dog Chiropractor: A Guide to Becoming a Canine Care Expert

Can You Get Dog Urine Out of Carpet

Why does my dog go between my legs when playing.

Can a Dog Take Zofran

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get the Reddit app

A place for photographs, pictures, and other images.

My dog ate my philosophy homework...

If the dog ate your homework, read this

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Dear Students,

I taught my first freshman composition class more than 40 years ago. Your class is my last.

We began the semester with 36 students. I predicted on the first day that I would probably wind up giving grades to half that many. Had I been more strict about dropping people whose attendance was erratic and whose assignments weren’t coming in, I would have been right. But I let lots of students slide. I didn’t drop people who weren’t showing up, nor did I drop the people who weren’t doing the work. That was no favor because now I’m forced to give grades that will narrow future options for people who might have gone further, had they only tried. If you were one of the students who missed more than five or six classes, or who failed to turn in most of the assignments, you need to ask yourself if you’re making good use of your time. There are always excuses for not showing up, or not turning work in. I’ve heard them all. But lives built on excuses generally don’t turn out well.

There were a handful of people in this class who made it here every day, always with the assigned writing completed. If I were an employer, these are the people I would want as employees.

But I have never liked to think of myself as working to provide a screening process for your future bosses. I like to think I’m working for you, and helping build your futures as more fully realized human beings. In that light, some of you have failed this semester. You’ve failed yourselves. As a result, some of you learned very little and showed no discernible improvement in your writing, wasting your time and mine.

I never find it pleasant or productive to guilt-trip students. But if just one of you reads these words and decides to take your education a bit more seriously, it was worth writing them.

Few people care whether you succeed or fail. You are not showing up to class for your teachers or even your parents. You’re not doing these assignments for anyone but yourselves. If you cut classes because your teachers bore you, then you should be dropping those classes, not piddling away your GPA.

I went to a community college too. I screwed up in high school, graduating in the bottom third of my class. But I married and became a father not long thereafter. Those responsibilities made me quite serious about the second chance offered by the community college system. It’s difficult to maintain a slacker attitude when you’re up nightly with 2 o’clock feedings of an infant daughter whose vulnerability and dependence on you are impossible to overlook. Had I not shown up regularly and done the work conscientiously, I would have blown that second chance. I would have had a much different life, a much poorer one, not only materially but intellectually and even spiritually. And my children would have had poorer lives too, because what I learned in college was shared with them in ways too numerous to count. I’ve never regretted the portion of my youth that I devoted to study.

And I’ve never regretted spending so much of my adult life teaching in community colleges. I’m glad I was able to help some of my students get their own second chances. Most of the people who attend community colleges have very little handed to them. We are not favored by wealth or connections. Unlike the Donald Trumps of the world, those born to the mansion, the way is not made easy for us. So it is something of a crime against our very selves when we squander the second chance when it is offered.

Some of you did just that this semester, throwing away time and opportunity. If next semester provides another opportunity, I hope you will seize it. Life has a way of getting serious with us well before some of us decide to get serious with it. By that time, it may be too late to build the life you might have wanted.

And if you don’t know just what it is you do want, drop out of school until you figure it out. If you misuse your time here, you will erode the chance you have for a more hopeful future. In the papers you wrote, I occasionally pointed out cliches in your prose. In this note to you, however, I have turned myself into a living cliche, an old teacher scolding the young for lack of seriousness. But ignore the hectoring of an old man who has traveled the road that lies ahead of you and you could become your own living cliche — the loser who squandered opportunity. My hope is that you do not.

Jaime O’Neill is a writer in Northern California.

More to Read

Was my favorite teacher gay? Maybe a belly dancer could find out

June 2, 2024

Granderson: Here’s one way to bring college costs back in line with reality

April 30, 2024

Opinion: I was homeless in college. California can do more for students who sleep in their cars

April 9, 2024

A cure for the common opinion

Get thought-provoking perspectives with our weekly newsletter.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor: Gas pool heaters are an easy target. What about gas cars?

Akwaeke Emezi’s novel ‘Little Rot’ is a thrilling but difficult descent into darkness

June 17, 2024

Editorial: L.A. can’t become an affordable, livable city by protecting single-family zoning

Letters to the Editor: Vandalizing Cal State L.A. buildings isn’t peaceful campus protest